I've decided to create a new resource for Postpartum Progress. I want to create a list of centers across the U.S. that specifically specialize in researching and treating women's perinatal mood disorders. I want a list of places where women can go and be assured that these centers are on the forefront of treating perinatal depression and discovering its sources — they're the best of the best. Often, when people find out they have cancer, they conduct research to find out the absolute best places to go for treatment. This list will provide that type of information for women suffering from perinatal mood disorders, including postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis and postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder.
To be included, centers must employ postpartum depression specialists, conduct research on perinatal mood disorders, offer clear and accessible web-based information on the types of treatment offered and how women can become patients, and also be accepting new patients for treatment. Examples of such places would include:
* The Emory Women's Mental Health Program at Emory University in Atlanta
* The Massachusetts General Hospital's Center for Women's Mental Health in Boston
* The University of North Carolina's Center for Women's Mood Disorders in Chapel Hill, NC
I personally was treated at Emory during my second pregnancy and I loved it for two reasons:
1) They knew EXACTLY what they were doing, as this is what Doctors Stowe and Newport treat every day of the week. It's not just a side job for them — it's their life. I believe you get better treatment from physicians who focus intensely on postpartum mood disorders. And, they're more likely to be able to refer you to the best therapists in your area for these disorders as well.
2) I was able to participate in a research program that will contribute to increased knowledge about the treatment of these disorders in the future. I think that is extremely important. The more information we have, the better the treatment will be and the less potential harmful side effects (hopefully) to ourselves and our children. We need to be willing to contribute to the amount of data that is available on these illnesses.
Please email me at stonecallis@msn.com with your recommendations and their related website addresses, and, if appropriate, I'll add those centers to my list and keep it available on Postpartum Progress for all readers.
I think what you are doing is so important. I am a intelligent woman who worked in mental health for a little while. As a matter of fact, my best friend is a counselor. I had (have) much insight to what my problem was (is), did TONS of research and yet 15 months later I'm still largely untreated for what I believe is postpatrum ocd. There is nowhere to turn for a definitive listing of providers specializing in this field. My counselor actually said to me "if there was such a diagnosis, I'd say you have postpartum anxiety" If there was such a thing? I think what you are doing is amazing! Thanks!!!!
-Katie